9-Year-Old Rescues Kitten That Was Being Thrown Around

Young Boy in Arizona Recognized as a Hero for Saving a Kitten

A nine-year-old boy in Arizona has gained recognition for rescuing a small kitten from being mistreated by older kids. Zane Berry intervened at a skate park in Somerton, offering to trade his beloved skateboard for the frightened animal, which was reportedly being tossed around “like a soccer ball.”

Thanks to Zane’s quick action, the kitten was saved, and he was later honored as the ASPCA’s 2025 “Kid of the Year.” This recognition came during the ASPCA Humanitarian Awards Ceremony at the Plaza Hotel in New York City on October 9th.

The event celebrates people and animals that exemplify compassion and bravery in animal protection.

“I once saw older children tossing a baby kitten around like a soccer ball. I felt sad and angry for the poor kitten,” Zane shared in an ASPCA statement. He added that he ran up to the kids, suggesting they take his skateboard and leave the kitten alone.

His plan worked; the children stopped their actions, took the skateboard, and left. Zane later recounted how horrified he was by the state of the kitten’s injuries. It had serious issues with its eyes and legs, and its body was covered in marks from the abuse.

“When I picked him up, he was meowing because he was so tiny. I ran to my mom and said I found this kitten, and she needed our help,” he said. His mother, Rhiannon Berry, recalled how she could hear him struggling and noticed the kitten’s legs were covered in dirt.

The family took the injured kitten home to clean it up before rushing it to the Yuma Humane Society for urgent care. Veterinarians found a severe eye infection and a respiratory illness. Sadly, despite their efforts, they had to remove the kitten’s eye.

“They told my mom that she might lose her eye when it was all over,” Zane revealed. He reassured them, saying, “As long as he’s alive, I don’t care because he’s my best friend.”

The kitten, named Peach for her orange and cream coloring, quickly recovered after surgery. Shelter staff credited Zane’s swift thinking for saving her life.

“It’s truly remarkable that Zane has such compassion and determination at such a young age,” remarked Lauren Twerdak, a spokesperson for the shelter.

News of Zane’s skateboard trade spread through Yuma, prompting local businesses to step in with donations, including gift cards and supplies to help him replace the skateboard. Contributions also assisted with Peach’s medical bills and adoption fees.

Zane has no regrets about the trade. Peach now sleeps by his side every night, becoming a cherished companion for him and his siblings. “He loves me and sleeps right next to my face and kisses me in the morning,” Zane said with a smile. “We were meant to be together, and I saved him. He’s mine. He’s my best friend.”